Ketogenic Weight Loss: The Lowering of Insulin Levels Is the Sleeping Giant in Patient Care

Research conducted by members of the American Society of Bariatric Physicians (recently renamed the Obesity Medicine Association) and others shows remark- able health benefits associated with wellness protocols that limit the intake of carbohydrates and sugars, which results in lower insulin demand and levels. The research demonstrates that the lowering of insulin levels dramatically improves diabetes'-5 and the factors associated with metabolic syndrome,6-8 including cen- tral obesity, high blood pressure, and elevated blood lipids, which, of course, are risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. Other conditions that have shown improvement under the influence of reduced insulin levels include fatty liver disease,9 polycystic ovary syndrome,10 gastroesophageal reflux disease,"12 irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea,13 and other maladies. Significantly, dietary carbohydrate restriction induces ketosis, a state in which the body is forced to burn fat instead of sugar as its primary source of fuel. When in ketosis, patients are able to lose weight safely, effectively, and relatively quickly.